Catgut sutures are sterile, absorbable surgical sutures composed of purified collagen derived from the serosal layer of bovine intestines or the submucosal fibrous layer of ovine intestines.
Chromic catgut is treated with glycerin and chromic salts to slow absorption and extend tensile strength retention. Available in USP sizes 7-0 to 4.
Key Features
Naturally absorbable via enzymatic hydrolysis
Smooth tissue passage and secure knotting
High tensile and needle attachment strength
Chromic variant offers delayed absorption (50% strength retained for 21–28 days)
Full absorption typically within 90 days
Available with high-performance 300-series alloy steel needles
Applications
Suitable for general soft tissue approximation and ligation, including ophthalmic procedures. Not recommended for infected tissue or where extended wound support is critical, due to variable absorption rates.
Sterilization: Ethylene Oxide